JP2021527460A - Ring-shaped eye treatment device - Google Patents

Abstract

An eye treatment device is described. The device includes an annular body having a hollow optical zone in its center. The inner circumference of the annular body surrounds the optical zone. The inner circumference has a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the cornea of the eye. The outer circumference of the annular body has a diameter that allows the annular body to extend below the eyelid at the open eye position when the eye treatment device is operating. In this way, the hollow optical zone corresponds substantially to the cornea and the device can be attached to the eye without obstructing the visual field. The annular body also includes a storage chamber for storing the therapeutic solution for the eye. The outlet is connected to the storage chamber so that the therapeutic solution can be administered to the eye during operation. [Selection diagram] Fig. 1

Description

Cross-reference of related applications

This application claims the interests of US Provisional Application No. 62 / 683,443 filed on June 11, 2018, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

<Description of invention rights achieved through federal research and development support>
Not applicable

In general, embodiments of the present invention relate to devices for administering therapeutic agents (eg, agents, drugs, saline, etc.) to specific parts of a patient's body. An example of targeted delivery to a part of a patient's body is the eye.

The most common treatment for various eye conditions is by topical application of ophthalmic solutions or eye drops. This method of fluid delivery to the eye accounts for 90% of all ophthalmic agents. However, this mode of delivery is very inefficient and the drug from eye drops may not be absorbed 10% in the eye.

In addition, compliance in eye drop delivery is a major issue in ophthalmology. In particular, default is a common problem with glaucoma treatments, with 25% of patients not prescribing a second prescription. Even when remembering instillation, many patients are unable to properly instill and distribute the appropriate amount of solution due to failure to drip into the eye. In addition, failure to apply eye drops correctly or not at all can eventually damage the optic nerve and eventually lead to irreversible blindness. Due to the lack of surgical intervention, glaucoma is rarely treated, so it is appropriate for patients to be consistently given the appropriate dose.

Existing non-surgical, long-term methods for applying topical drugs to the eye are typically inadequate. There are patents detailing several mechanisms for drug pumps, but they are lacking in the consistent administration of such drugs. It would be beneficial to deliver ophthalmic fluids and drugs more accurately and effectively.

Therefore, there is a need for an improved approach to targeted drug delivery, at least in the patient's eye, in the art.

Eye treatment devices are described herein. In one example, an eye treatment device that can be worn on the sclera of the eye includes an annular body that defines a hollow optical zone. The annular body is defined by an inner circumference, an outer circumference surrounding the inner circumference, an upper surface existing between the inner circumference and the outer circumference, and a bottom surface facing the upper surface. The inner circumference surrounds the hollow optical zone. The shortest distance between the two points on either side of the inner circumference is 8 to 12 millimeters. The eye treatment device also includes a treatment solution storage chamber arranged in the annular body. The ophthalmic treatment device is coupled to the treatment fluid storage chamber and also includes a treatment fluid outlet located in the inner circumference, outer circumference or bottom surface. The eye treatment device also includes a pressure chamber located within the annular body.

In one example, the ophthalmic treatment device further comprises a flexible diaphragm that is located between the pressure chamber and the treatment fluid storage chamber.

In one example, the therapeutic fluid storage chamber contains the therapeutic fluid. The eye treatment device further includes a movable barrier that is placed between the pressure chamber and the treatment fluid.

In one example, the therapeutic solution storage chamber contains a therapeutic solution for the eye. The inner circumference is arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone. The outer circumference is arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone and has a diameter of 20 to 100 mm.

In one example, the inner circumference includes one or more flaps.

In one example, the inner circumference is shaped as a discontinuous circle placed around the center of the hollow optical zone and has a diameter of 8 to 20 millimeters.

In one example, the bottom surface is the stiffening surface. The eye treatment device further comprises a tether and a suture hole connected to the stiction surface.

In one example, the pressure chamber contains a plurality of biosafe chemicals separated by at least one seal. In a further example, the pressure chamber further comprises a pressure source constructed of a fragile material. The pressure source includes a first chemical storage chamber and a second chemical storage chamber separated from each other by a seal. The first chemical storage chamber contains a first biologically safe chemical. The second chemical storage chamber contains a second biologically safe chemical.

In one example, the pressure chamber contains a biosafe phase transition material.

In one example, the ophthalmic treatment device further comprises a plurality of therapeutic fluid storage chambers, each of which is coupled to a therapeutic fluid outlet.

In one example, the ophthalmic treatment apparatus further comprises a plurality of therapeutic fluid storage chambers and a plurality of therapeutic fluid outlets, each of which is coupled to a separate one of the plurality of therapeutic fluid outlets.

In one example, the ophthalmic treatment device further comprises a plurality of therapeutic fluid outlets, each of which is coupled to a therapeutic fluid storage chamber.

In one example, the ophthalmic treatment device further comprises a plurality of pressure chambers and a plurality of flexible membranes, each of which is between a therapeutic solution storage chamber and a separate one of the plurality of pressure chambers. Is placed in.

In one example, the eye treatment apparatus further comprises a plurality of therapeutic fluid storage chambers, a plurality of pressure chambers, and a plurality of flexible membranes, each of the plurality of flexible membranes having a plurality of therapeutic fluid storage chambers. It is located between a separate one and a separate one of multiple pressure chambers.

In one example, the eye treatment device further comprises a pillar having one end attached to the bottom surface and the opposite end attached to the top surface.

In one example, the ophthalmic treatment device further comprises a delivery channel having one end connected to the treatment fluid storage chamber and the opposite end connected to the treatment fluid outlet. In a further example, the ophthalmic treatment device further comprises a one-way valve located within the delivery channel or treatment fluid outlet. In another example, the ophthalmic treatment device further includes a flow limiter that is located within the delivery channel or therapeutic fluid outlet or is connected to the delivery channel or therapeutic fluid outlet.

In one example, an eye treatment device that can be worn on the sclera of the eye comprises an annular body that defines a hollow optical zone. The annular body is defined by an inner circumference, an outer circumference surrounding the inner circumference, an upper surface existing between the inner circumference and the outer circumference, and a bottom surface facing the upper surface. The inner circumference surrounds the hollow optical zone. The shortest distance between the two points on either side of the inner circumference is 8 to 12 millimeters. The eye treatment device also includes a treatment liquid storage chamber arranged in the annular body. The ophthalmic treatment device is coupled to the treatment liquid storage chamber and also includes a treatment liquid outlet arranged in the inner circumference, the outer circumference, or the bottom surface. The ophthalmic treatment device also comprises a one-way inlet valve that is coupled to the treatment fluid storage chamber and has an output port facing inward to the treatment fluid storage chamber.

In one example, the therapeutic solution storage chamber contains a therapeutic solution for the eye. The inner circumference is arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone. The outer circumference is arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone and has a diameter of 20 to 100 mm.

In one example, the ophthalmic treatment device further comprises a one-way outlet valve that is coupled to the treatment fluid storage chamber and has an output port that points outward from the treatment fluid storage chamber. In a further example, the one-way outlet valve is located in the therapeutic fluid outlet or in the delivery channel between the therapeutic fluid outlet and the therapeutic fluid storage chamber. In another example, the one-way outlet valve is connected to the output port of the treatment fluid storage chamber.

In one example, the one-way inlet valve is connected to the input port of the treatment fluid storage chamber.

In one example, the eye treatment device further comprises a replenishment chamber for storing liquid or gas. In a further example, the one-way inlet valve is located between the replenishment chamber and the treatment fluid storage chamber.

In one example, an eye treatment device that can be worn on the sclera of the eye includes an annular body that defines a hollow optical zone. The annular body is defined by an inner circumference, an outer circumference surrounding the inner circumference, an upper surface existing between the inner circumference and the outer circumference, and a bottom surface facing the upper surface. The inner circumference surrounds the hollow optical zone. The shortest distance between the two points on either side of the inner circumference is 8 to 12 millimeters. The ophthalmic treatment device also comprises a therapeutic fluid delivery channel that is located within the annular body and has a cross section. The ophthalmic treatment device is coupled to a treatment fluid delivery channel and also includes a treatment fluid outlet that is located in the inner circumference, outer circumference, or bottom surface. The ophthalmic treatment device also comprises a pressure chamber that is located within the annular body and is coupled to the therapeutic fluid delivery channel. The ophthalmic treatment device also comprises a movable barrier that is placed within the therapeutic fluid delivery channel. The movable barrier has a cross section. The end of the movable barrier faces the pressure chamber.

In one example, the therapeutic solution delivery channel comprises a therapeutic solution for the eye. The inner circumference is arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone. The outer circumference is arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone and has a diameter of 20 to 100 mm.

In one example, one end of the therapeutic solution delivery channel is connected to the pressure chamber. The other end of the therapeutic fluid delivery channel is connected to the therapeutic fluid outlet.

In one example, the first portion of the therapeutic fluid delivery channel comprises the therapeutic fluid for the eye. The pressure chamber contains a second part of the therapeutic solution delivery channel. A movable barrier is placed between the first and second parts.

In one example, the movable barrier is a solid object or a liquid having a viscosity above a predetermined viscosity threshold.

In one example, the opposite end of the movable barrier faces the therapeutic solution outlet.

In one example, the ophthalmic treatment device further includes a flow limiter that is located within the treatment fluid delivery channel or treatment fluid outlet or is connected to the treatment fluid delivery channel or treatment fluid outlet.

A further understanding of the properties and advantages of the embodiments disclosed and proposed herein can be achieved by reference to the rest of the specification and the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a top view of an exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring defined on the basis of concentric circles according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring defined on the basis of discontinuous concentric circles according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, including an inner flap, according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, including an outer flap, according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring according to an embodiment. It is a figure which shows the arrangement of the liquid delivery ring for ophthalmology including a pressure chamber by one Embodiment. FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary pressure source for a pressure chamber of an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 shows another exemplary pressure source for a pressure chamber of an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, according to one embodiment. It is a figure which shows the operation of the pressure base of the membrane in the pressure source of an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a top view of an exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring comprising a pressure chamber according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, including a pressure chamber, according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a top view of yet another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, including a pressure chamber, according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a top view of a further exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring comprising a pressure chamber according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, including a pressure chamber, according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a top view of yet another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, including a pressure chamber, according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a top view of a further exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring comprising a pressure chamber according to one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a top view of an exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring comprising a delivery channel according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, including a delivery channel, according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 shows the arrangement of an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring operated according to an external pressure source according to one embodiment. FIG. 5 is a top view of an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring operated according to an external pressure source according to one embodiment.

In general, eye treatment devices are described herein. Particularly described are exemplary eye treatment devices that can be worn on the sclera of the eye, have a ring shape, and can be used to treat different conditions of dryness of the eye. be. Each of the eye treatment devices delivers a reliable amount of liquid to the eye over a long period of time. The particular type and amount of liquid, as well as the particular rate and location of liquid delivery, may depend on the condition of the eye, whereby the eye treatment device contains a particular type and amount of liquid and is specific. It is configured to distribute the liquid at a specific position depending on the velocity.

In an embodiment, the eye treatment device comprises an annular body having a hollow optical zone in its center. The inner circumference of the annular body surrounds the optical zone. The annular body also includes an outer circumference, a top surface and a bottom surface. The inner and outer parameters are defined according to concentric circles centered on the center of the optical zone. The inner circumference has a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the cornea of the eye. The outer circumference has a diameter that allows the annular body to extend below the eyelid at the open eye position when the eye treatment device is in operation. In this way, the eye treatment device can be worn on the eye with the upper surface facing outward from the eye and the bottom surface in contact with the eye. The hollow optical zone corresponds substantially to the cornea and does not obstruct (eg, block) the field of view.

In addition, the annular body includes a therapeutic fluid storage chamber that forms a reservoir for storing therapeutic fluids for the eye, such as agents for treating eye conditions. The therapeutic fluid outlet is connected to the therapeutic fluid storage chamber, and during operation, the therapeutic fluid can flow from the reservoir storing the therapeutic fluid and be distributed from the therapeutic fluid outlet. The location of the therapeutic liquid outlet depends on the condition being treated and can be located within the inner circumference, outer circumference or bottom surface of the annular body. Further, a flow rate limiter can be arranged between the treatment liquid outlet and the treatment liquid storage chamber, in the treatment liquid outlet, or in the output port of the treatment liquid storage chamber to limit the flow of the treatment liquid according to the target flow rate. ..

Different configurations are possible to drive the flow of therapeutic fluid. In one exemplary configuration, the annular body also includes a pressure chamber and a flexible membrane located between the pressure chamber and the therapeutic liquid storage chamber. The pressure in the pressure chamber can be generated based on chemical decomposition or phase transition, which activates the flexible membrane to allow the therapeutic fluid to flow from the therapeutic fluid storage chamber. In another exemplary configuration, the therapeutic solution storage chamber comprises a delivery channel, such as a spiral delivery channel. The delivery channel comprises a therapeutic solution. The movable membrane is placed in the delivery channel and has substantially the same cross section as the delivery channel. One end of the movable membrane is directed to the pressure chamber of the annular body. During operation, the pressure from the pressure chamber pushes the movable membrane along the delivery channel towards the therapeutic fluid outlet, thereby causing the therapeutic fluid to flow from the delivery pathway to the therapeutic fluid outlet. In yet another exemplary configuration, the annular body does not include an internal pressure source. Instead, external pressure is used to create a flow during operation. The external pressure can be the pressure from the eyelid or the pressure from the finger pushing over the eyelid against the annulus. In this example, the annular body comprises a one-way inlet valve that is connected to a treatment fluid storage chamber and has an outlet port that is directed to the inside of the treatment fluid storage chamber. In this way, at the end of the pressure application, when the pressure is released, the one-way inlet valve is activated to release the liquid or gas into the therapeutic solution storage chamber for pressure equalization. These and other aspects of the embodiment will be further described in the context of the following drawings.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 according to an embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 is an example of an ophthalmic treatment device.

In one example, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 includes an annular body 110. The annular body 110 has a hollow optical zone 120 centered on the center of the annular body 110. The hollow optical zone 120 is empty and does not block, alter, or obstruct the visual field of the eye when the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 is attached to the eye. For example, the hollow optical zone 120 has a circular shape with a diameter close to the average diameter of the cornea of the human eye. For example, this diameter ranges from 8 to 12 millimeters. In certain examples, the diameter is 10 millimeters or about 10 millimeters.

The annular body 110 has internal parameters that surround or surround the hollow optical zone 120. In this case, the inner circumference can also have a circular shape with a diameter close to the average diameter of the cornea of the human eye. For example, this diameter ranges from 8 to 12 millimeters. In certain examples, the diameter is 10 millimeters or about 10 millimeters. When worn on the eye, the inner circumference may be placed at the edge of the cornea or in close proximity to the cornea.

The outer circumference is on the opposite side of the inner parameter. Further, the outer circumference can have a circular shape. During operation, the outer circumference can be located on the sclera. In one embodiment, the circumference may be below the eyelids when the eye is in the open position. In the figure, the outer circle has a diameter in the range of 20-100 mm. In certain examples, the diameter is 60 millimeters or about 60 millimeters.

The annular body 110 can have a curvature that substantially follows the curvature of the sclera. Different materials are available to make the annular body 110. For example, the annular body 110 is either rigid permeable glass, silicone, parylene, or any other biosafe flexible material that is suitable for wearing on the eye and can be formed to that curvature. It can be made from a combination thereof.

Thus, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 has a ring-like shape, its hollow optical zone 120 is approximately the size of an average human cornea, and its outer circumference is large enough to fall onto the sclera. Is. The ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 100 does not cover the cornea when worn on the eye and extends from the cornea across the sclera, perhaps under the eyelids. Due to its size and position, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 should be easily retained on the eye without having to worry about water content, suction, or capillary force. This allows the Ophthalmic Liquid Delivery Ring 100 to be useful in a variety of patients, including patients with dry eye, and allows the dose to such devices to be adapted to the range of 100 μL. This allows for long-term wear (eg 2-6 months).

As further described in connection with the following figure, depending on the pressure-related configuration of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 is a scleral ring that includes all or part of the sclera. It can be configured as a non-powered or low power pump designed within (eg, a contact lens with an open central optic). Although various embodiments describe the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring as having a hollow central optical zone, it can be modified with respect to the optical zone. For example, the optical zone can include a transparent material (eg, glass) or a contact lens (eg, for vision correction).

Various embodiments of the present disclosure are described in connection with an inner circumference having a circular shape with a diameter of 8 to 12 millimeters, but the embodiments of the present disclosure are not so limited. Alternatively, other shapes and dimensions of the inner circumference are possible. For example, it suffices to have an inner circumference surrounding the hollow optical zone 120 (eg, outside the hollow optical zone 120, but completely or partially), and different shapes and dimensions can be used. The internal parameters can have both sides with respect to the center of the hollow optical zone 120. In this specification, two points on opposite sides are referred to as opposite points. The shortest distance between two opposing points on the inner circumference should be greater than or equal to the width and length of the hollow optical zone 120. For example, the shortest distance is in the range of 8-12 millimeters. In certain examples, the shortest distance is 10 millimeters or about 10 millimeters.

Further, various embodiments of the present disclosure are described in connection with hollow optical zones having a circular shape with a diameter of 8 mm to 12 mm, but the embodiments of the present disclosure are not so limited. Alternatively, other shapes and dimensions of the hollow optical zone are possible. For example, the hollow optical zone may be large enough so as not to block or connect to the visual field of the eye. In one example, the hollow optical zone can be circular to mimic the cornea of the eye and can have a diameter greater than or equal to the average size of the cornea (eg, the diameter ranges from 8 to 12 millimeters and is specific. In the example this diameter is 10 mm or about 10 mm). In another example, the hollow optical zone is circular but can penetrate the cornea while having a diameter larger than the average size of the pupil of the dilated eye (eg, 4-8 mm). In another example, the hollow optical zone does not have to be circular. For example, a hollow optical zone can have a center and both sides to the center (eg, for circles, rectangles, squares, triangles, or any other shape, including random shapes). The shortest distance between two opposing points in the hollow optical zone should be greater than or equal to the average size of the cornea (or, instead, the dilated pupil). For example, the shortest distance is in the range of 8-12 mm (or in the range of 4-8 mm; or in the range of 4-12 mm as a whole). In certain examples, the shortest distance is 10 millimeters or about 10 millimeters.

FIG. 2 shows a top view of an exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 200 defined on the basis of concentric circles according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 200 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG.

In one example, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 200 includes an annular body 210 and an optical zone 220. The optical zone 220 is central to the annular body 210 and is hollow. As shown, the optical zone 220 has a circular shape in the range of 8-12 mm in diameter (eg, two opposing points of the optical zone 220 are found at both ends of the circle, the shortest between the two opposing points. Distances range from 8 to 12 millimeters, and in certain cases the shortest distance is 10 millimeters or about 10 millimeters). The inner circumference of the annular body 210 is also circular and is around the optical zone 220 and therefore has the same diameter (eg, two opposing points on the inner circumference are found at both ends of the circle and two opposing points. The shortest distance between is in the range of 8-12 mm, in certain cases the shortest distance is 10 mm or about 10 mm, and the two opposing points on the inner circumference are the two opposing points in the optical zone 220. Can be accommodated). The outer circumference of the annular body 210 also has a circular shape with a diameter in the range of 20-100 mm. Therefore, the inner circumference and the optical zone 220 are defined for an inner circle with a diameter of 8 mm to 12 mm. In comparison, the perimeter is defined for an outer circle with a diameter of 20-100 millimeters. The inner and outer circles are continuous and concentric. The centers of these two circles are the centers of the annular body 210 and the optical zone 220.

FIG. 3 shows a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 300 defined on the basis of discontinuous concentric circles according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 300 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG.

In one example, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 300 includes an annular body 310 and an optical zone 320. The optical zone 320 is in the center of the annular body 310 and is hollow. Similar to the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 200 of FIG. 2, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 300 has an inner circumference and an outer circumference, and the inner circumference and the optical zone 320 are defined with respect to an inner circle having a diameter of 8 mm to 12 mm. The outer circumference is defined for an outer circle with a diameter of 20 to 100 mm, and the inner and outer circles are concentric. However, unlike the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 200 of FIG. 2, the inner and outer circles are discontinuous. In other words, each of the inner and outer circles is not a perfect circle and contains an opening (or equivalently, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 300 is not a perfect ring and instead contains a break). The amount of opening determines the angle with respect to the center of each of the two circles. The angle can vary from 1 degree to 270 degrees.

Such a concentric discontinuous shape of the Ophthalmic Liquid Delivery Ring 300 adapts the range of curvature and size of the eye by automatically changing the discontinuous opening when applied to the eye. Provides the benefit of adjusting to. In certain embodiments, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 300 is made larger and relies on the adjustment of curvature to constrict one or more flow path traces in it, directing the flow of therapeutic fluid. Aggressive contraction enhances retention of the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 300 without requiring the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 300 to return further into the orbit of the eye. The flow of therapeutic fluid can penetrate towards the medial and / or discontinuous openings according to the treatment for corneal or conjunctival application, depending on the selective placement of one or more outlets and the ratio between the outlets.
Discontinuous openings can be resized and have other ophthalmic fluid delivery rings with specific quadrant positions 300: glaucoma drainage armed valve, sublacrimal shunt, trabecular It may be more advantageous to place a shunt, posterior drug delivery device, etc. to prevent interaction with other ophthalmic liquid delivery rings 300. The discontinuous openings may be of various sizes such as 10 °, 90 °, 120 ° and even 270 °. For larger openings, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 300's ocular contact surface may be rough, treated with a higher stiction material, supported by a tether, or supplemented by a suture hole. It may be a combination thereof.

FIG. 4 shows a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 400, including an inner flap, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 400 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG.

In one example, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 400 includes an annular body 410 and an optical zone 420. The optical zone 420 is central to the annular body 410 and is hollow. Similar to the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 200 in FIG. 2, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 400 has inner and outer parameters, and the inner and optical zones 420 have an inner circle (broken line) with a diameter of 8 to 12 mm. Defined for (indicated by 450), the outer circumference is defined for an outer circle with a diameter of 20 mm to 100 mm, and the inner and outer circles 450 and outer circles are concentric. However, unlike the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 200 of FIG. 2, the inner circumference is not parallel to the inner circle 450. Instead, the inner circumference follows the inner circle 450 as a whole, while including a protrusion 430 and a recess 440 around the inner circle 450. These protrusions 430 and 440 represent flaps (eg, outer flaps that project with respect to the inner circle 450 and inner flaps that recede with respect to the inner circle 450). Similar to the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 300 of FIG. 3, the flaps here provide the benefit of adaptively adjusting the range of curvature and size of the eye, allowing for improved retention or fit to the eye. .. In this example, two opposite points on the inner circumference are found on the convex parts 430 on both sides, and the shortest distance between the two opposite points is in the range of 8 to 12 millimeters. In certain examples, the shortest distance is 10 millimeters or about 10 millimeters. The two opposite points on the inner circumference can correspond to the two opposite points on the optical zone 430. The maximum distance between two opposing points on the inner circumference is found on the recesses 440 on both sides. The maximum distance is in the range of 10-14 mm. In certain examples, the maximum distance is 12 mm or about 12 mm.

FIG. 5 shows a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, including an outer flap, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 500 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG.

In one example, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 500 includes an annular body 510 and an optical zone 520. The optical zone 520 is central to the annular body 510 and is hollow. Similar to the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 200 in FIG. 2, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 500 has inner and outer parameters, and the inner and optical zones 520 have an inner circle (dashed line 550) with a diameter of 8 to 12 mm. The outer circle is defined with respect to the outer circle (indicated by the dashed line 560) having a diameter of 20 mm to 100 mm, and the inner circle 450 and the outer circle are concentric. Further, similar to the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 200 of FIG. 2, the inner circumference of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 500 includes a flap 540. In addition, the outer circumference of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 500 includes a flap 530. In particular, unlike the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 400 of FIG. 4, the outer circumference is not parallel to the outer circle 560. Instead, the outer circumference substantially follows the outer circle 560, including protrusions and recesses around the outer circle 560. These protrusions and recesses represent flaps 530 (eg, outer flaps that project with respect to the outer circle 560 and inner flaps that recede with respect to the outer circle 560). Similar to the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 400 of FIG. 4, the flap 530 here offers the benefit of being able to adaptively adjust the range of curvature and size of the eye to improve retention or fit to the eye. ..

FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 600 according to an embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 600 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG.

In one example, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 600 includes an annular body 610 and an optical zone 620. The optical zone 620 is in the center of the annular body 610 and is hollow. The annular body 610 is defined by an inner circumference 630 surrounding the optical zone 620, an outer circumference 640 facing the inner circumference 630, a bottom surface 650 between the inner circumference 630 and the outer circumference 640, and an upper surface 660 facing the bottom surface 650. ..

In one example, the outer circumference 640 can be a wall having a certain height (eg, 1-5 mm). The bottom edge of the wall may be connected to the bottom 650. The top edge of the wall may be connected to the top surface 660. In addition, or alternative, the outer circumference 640 can be formed as a junction between the bottom surface 650 and the top surface 660.

In one example, the inner circumference 630 can be a wall with a certain height (eg, 1-5 mm). The heights of the inner peripheral edge 630 and the outer peripheral edge may be the same or different. The bottom edge of the wall of the inner circumference 630 may be connected to the bottom surface 650. The top edge of this wall may be connected to the top surface 660. In addition, or alternative, the inner circumference 630 may be formed as a junction between the bottom surface 650 and the top surface 660.

Each of the bottom surface 650 and the top surface 660 can extend between the inner circumference 630 and the outer circumference 660 according to a certain curvature. The curvatures of the bottom surface 650 and the top surface 660 may be the same or substantially the same so that the bottom surface 650 and the top surface 660 are parallel to each other. Alternatively, these curvatures may be different. In general, at least the curvature of the bottom surface 650 is concave and can be substantially similar to the curvature of the sclera. The bottom surface 650 is located on the sclera of the eye when worn on the eye. Thus, the bottom surface can be configured as a stiffening surface by using a material with high static friction and, optionally, by including a corrugated structure or other friction element on the bottom surface 650 to increase its friction. .. In addition, the bottom surface 650 can be connected to a tether (eg, one shaped like a flap), where the tether comprises one or more suture holes. The tether can generally be oriented away from the inner circumference 620 (eg, the optical zone) and can be on the sides of the outer circumference 620. For example, referring again to FIG. 5, one or more of the flaps 530 can include suture holes.

Further, each of the inner circumference 630, the outer circumference 640, the bottom surface 650 and the top surface 660 can have a thickness. The thickness may be the same, but it does not have to be the same. Examples of thickness are in the range of 1-5 mm. In addition, each of the inner circumference 630, outer circumference 640, bottom 650 and top 660 is suitable for wearing on glass, silicone, parylene, or the eye and is safe for any other organism that can be formed to the desired curvature. It can be made from biocompatible materials such as flexible materials.

In general, there can be a space between the bottom 650 and the top 660. In one example, the space extends to occupy a portion (eg, 50%) of the total height between the bottom 650 and the top 660. This space can extend across the boundary between the inner circumference 630 and the outer circumference 640. In this case, the space occupies the entire volume defined by the inner circumference 630, the outer circumference 640, the bottom surface 650 and the top surface 660. The volume can range from 20 to 500 cubic millimeters. In another description, the space occupies only part of the volume defined by the inner circumference 630, the outer circumference 640, the bottom surface 650 and the top surface 660. Further, a plurality of spaces can be defined in the volume so as to form a plurality of pockets in the volume.

The space can be used to define one or more chambers and one or more channels, where the chambers can be therapeutic chambers and / or pressure chambers, the channels being delivery channels, flow limiting. It can be a chamber channel and / or a flow path. For example, one space can be a therapeutic solution storage room with an output port. The space adjacent to it can be a pressure chamber. Another space may define a delivery channel connected to the egress port. In another description, one space can be a therapeutic solution storage chamber and a pressure chamber separated by a flexible membrane. Of course, it is defined by an inner circumference 630, an outer circumference 640, a bottom surface 650 and a top surface 660, and includes, or a combination of, a therapeutic solution storage chamber, a pressure chamber, a delivery channel, a flow limiter channel and / or a flow path, and the like. Other implementations are possible to construct the possible volume. In general, the therapeutic solution storage room can be a space for storing the therapeutic solution. The pressure chamber can be a space for storing a pressure source that can provide pressure to cause (eg, push or withdraw) the flow of therapeutic fluid from the therapeutic fluid storage chamber. The delivery channel may be a space through which the therapeutic fluid flows and may be connected to a therapeutic fluid outlet that distributes the therapeutic fluid flow to the outside of the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 600. The flow rate limiting flow path may be a space through which the therapeutic solution flows, and this space controls the flow rate. The flow path can be a space through which the therapeutic solution flows. Delivery channels and flow limiter channels are examples of channels.

As further illustrated, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 600 includes one or more therapeutic fluid outlets (illustrated with element numbers 670A, 670B and 670C, the therapeutic fluid outlet being referred to herein as outlet 670). obtain. The outlet 670 may be configured to deliver the therapeutic fluid to the outside of the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 600. Various types of delivery are possible, depending on the type of outlet 670. For example, outlet 670 includes an opening, thereby allowing delivery through the flow. The outlet 670 can be a membrane made of a material that allows the therapeutic solution to permeate, thereby allowing delivery through permeation. In addition, the outlet 670 can include a one-way valve with an outward flow direction from the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 600. In addition, the outlet 670 can include a one-way valve or a two-way valve with opposite flow directions, depending on the need to carry the liquid to the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 600.

The location of the outlet 670 may also depend on the targeted treatment or use of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 600. For example, for delivery of therapeutic fluid to the optical zone of the eye (eg, the cornea), the outlet 670 is close to the inner circumference 630 and, in some cases, the bottom 650 (as indicated by the exit 670A). Can be placed. For delivery of the therapeutic solution onto the sclera (to treat dryness of the eye), the outlet 670 may be located on the bottom surface 650 (as indicated by the outlet 670B). For delivery of therapeutic fluid to the outside of the eye (for treating allergies), the outlet 670 can be placed on the outer circumference 640 and, in some cases, on the bottom 650 (as indicated by the outlet 670C). Can be placed in close proximity.

One or more types of therapeutic solution can be stored within the volume of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 600. This volume can include a single treatment solution storage chamber or multiple treatment solution storage chambers. The therapeutic solution storage chamber can store one or more therapeutic solutions, either as one or more mixtures or separately. Types of therapeutic solutions include liquid drugs. These types also include fluid solutions containing microorganisms (eg, bacteria, eukaryotic cells, manipulation cells), components of synthetic pathways, and / or catalysts / enzymes capable of inducing therapeutic effects. For example, microorganisms can synthesize therapeutic molecules or drugs and receive the necessary nutrients from the tears of the eye or the feeding chamber within the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 600. Similarly, components of the synthetic pathway can utilize compounds from tears and / or chambers to synthesize therapeutic molecules. Catalysts / enzymes can also be used to convert compounds into therapeutic agents. The prodrug can be housed in an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 600 and can undergo a catalytic limiting reaction to produce the drug. Zero-order kinetics can be achieved if a semipermeable membrane is utilized that is selective for the drug but not for the prodrug. Similarly, harmful molecules in the tear film can be neutralized by contained microorganisms, chemicals, or catalysts / enzymes.

FIG. 7 shows the arrangement of an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 700, including a pressure chamber 720, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 700 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG. The illustrated arrangement shows a partial cross section of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 700.

In particular, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 700 includes an annular body 702 formed of a material of a particular thickness. The annular body 702 includes a volume divided between the pressure chamber 720 and the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 710. The flexible film 740 separates the pressure chamber 720 and the therapeutic solution storage chamber 710. The membrane can be made from a flexible material such as silicone or parylene having a specific thickness (eg, in the range of 0.1-2 mm). The pressure chamber 720 accommodates the pressure source 730. On the other hand, the therapeutic solution storage chamber 710 stores the therapeutic solution.

Further, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 700 includes a therapeutic fluid outlet 750 connected to the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 710. During operation, the pressure from the pressure source 730 inside the pressure chamber 720 activates the flexible membrane 740, pushing or pulling a portion of the treatment fluid from the treatment fluid storage chamber 710, which is the part of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 700. Flows to therapeutic fluid outlet 750 for outward delivery.

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary pressure source for a pressure chamber of an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring according to one embodiment. More specifically, FIG. 8 shows a cross section of the pressure source. The pressure source is an example of the pressure source 730 in FIG.

As shown, the pressure source includes a chamber 800 defined by an outer membrane 840. The chamber 800 can be of any shape and size, such as a rectangular parallelepiped, and defines the volume. The outer membrane 840 breaks based on the mechanical pressure applied from the external source to the pressure source (or equivalent, chamber 800) and based on the mechanical pressure applied internally from the chamber 800 (eg, based on gas pressure rise). It may be a biosafe membrane made of a fragile material that is fragile or permeable to gas molecules and does not need to be destroyed when external or internal pressure is applied. For example, the outer membrane 840 can be made from thin glass (eg, having a thickness of less than 1 millimeter) or thin parylene material (eg, having a thickness of less than 1 micrometer).

Further, the chamber 800 includes one or more inner membranes 830 that divide the volume of the chamber 800 into a plurality of subvolumes. Each of such subvolumes can define a chemical storage chamber for storing biosafety chemicals. The inner membrane 830 acts as a barrier or seal between at least two such chemical storage chambers to prevent the stored chemicals from mixing with each other. The inner membrane 830 may be a biologically safe membrane that breaks under mechanical pressure applied from an external source to a pressure source (or equivalent, chamber 800). For example, the inner membrane 810 can be made from thin glass (eg, having a thickness of less than 1 millimeter).

As shown, the chamber 800 is divided into two chemical storage chambers 810 and 820 separated by an inner membrane 830. The first chemical storage chamber 810 stores the first biosafety chemical 812. Similarly, the second chemical storage chamber 820 stores the second biosafety chemical 822. No chemical decomposition occurs when these two chemicals 812 and 822 are separated from each other. For example, the first biosafety chemical 812 can be acetic acid and the second biosafety chemical 822 can be baking soda (LVDS ₃ ). In another description, the first biosafety chemical 812 can be a peroxide and the second biosafety chemical 822 can be platinum.

As further shown in FIG. 8, when mechanical pressure is applied to the chamber 800, the inner membrane 830 is destroyed, allowing the first biosafety chemical 812 and the second biosafety chemical 822 to mix. And thereby producing a mixture 850 of the two chemicals 812 and 822. This mixing releases gas molecules 860. The gas molecule 860 can be released from the chamber 800 (eg, on the basis that the outer membrane 840 is also destroyed by the same mechanical pressure, different external pressure "or" increase in internal pressure, or on the basis of permeation).

FIG. 9 shows another exemplary pressure source for the pressure chamber of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring according to one embodiment. More specifically, FIG. 9 shows a cross section of the pressure source. The pressure source is an example of the pressure source 730 in FIG.

As shown, the pressure source includes a chamber 900 defined by an outer membrane 920. The chamber 920 may be of any shape and size, such as a rectangular parallelepiped, and defines the volume. The outer membrane 920 can be a biosafe membrane made of a fragile material that breaks based on the mechanical pressure applied internally from the chamber 800 (eg, based on an increase in gas pressure), or a gas. It can be a biologically safe membrane that is permeable to molecules and does not need to be broken when an external or internal pressure is applied. For example, the outer membrane 920 can be made from thin glass (eg, having a thickness of less than 1 millimeter) or thin parylene material (eg, having a thickness of less than 1 micrometer).

In addition, the volume of chamber 900 is completely or partially occupied by the biosafe phase transition material 910. The material 910 can be in a first state (eg, solid or liquid) at a first temperature and can be changed to a second state (eg, gas) at a second temperature. Therefore, in response to a change from a first temperature to a temperature above the second temperature (or a change to a temperature below the second temperature, depending on the material), the biosafe phase transition material 910 is in a second state. It changes to (shown in the figure as element 930), where the gas molecule 940 is released in this second state. Gas molecules 940 can be released from chamber 900 (eg, on the basis of an outer membrane 920 that is destroyed by external pressure application or internal pressure rise, or on the basis of permeation).

The biosafe phase transition material 910 can be a material that is biosafe and expands during the phase transition within the desired temperature range of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, making it a suitable phase transition material. In one example, the phase transition is in the normal temperature range encountered during the patient's daily life (eg 50 ° F to 160 ° F (10 ° C to 71.1 ° C), more specifically 70 ° F to 120 ° F (21.1 ° C). ℃ ~ 48.9 ℃)) occurs within the temperature range. For example, the biosafe phase transition material 910 can be perfluorocarbon (PFC). In another example, the phase transition occurs from a heating element built into the pressure chamber 900 or in the pressure chamber containing the chamber 900. By using a variety of phase transition materials, the rate of fluid delivery can be adjusted to meet specific needs.

FIG. 10 shows the pressure-based operation of the membrane in the pressure chamber of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1000 according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1000 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG. Pressure-based operation can occur following the release of gas molecules based on chemical decomposition as described in connection with FIG. 8, or can occur on the basis of a phase transition as described in connection with FIG. ..

In one example, an ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 1000 comprises a therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1010 for storing the therapeutic fluid, a pressure chamber 1020 for accommodating a pressure source, a flexible membrane 1030 (eg, a flexible diaphragm), and a therapeutic fluid. Includes therapeutic fluid outlet 1040 connected to storage chamber 1010. When the gas molecules are released, pressure is applied internally from the pressure chamber 1020 to the flexible membrane (two arrows pointing up at the bottom of Figure 2). When the pressure rises sufficiently, the flexible membrane 1030 flexes into the treatment fluid storage chamber 1010, increasing the pressure in the treatment fluid storage chamber 1010 and part of the treatment fluid from the treatment fluid storage chamber 1010 to the treatment fluid outlet 1040. Causes a flow of 1050.

FIG. 11 shows a top view of an exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 11000, including a pressure chamber, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1100 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG.

In one example, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1100 includes an annular body 1110 and an optical zone 1120. The optical zone 1120 is in the center of the annular body 1110. The annular body 1110 includes a pressure chamber 1130, a therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1140, and a therapeutic fluid outlet 1150.

The pressure chamber 1130 can occupy part of the volume within the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 1100, while the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1140 occupies the rest of that volume. In particular, the pressure chamber 1130 can be accommodated near the outer circumference of the annular body 1102 and can have an annular volume. The annular volume can be placed below the therapeutic solution storage chamber 1140, as shown by the dashed line in FIG. However, instead, the annular volume can be placed at the top of the therapeutic solution storage chamber 1140.

In addition, the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1140 can store the therapeutic fluid and can include a port. Therapeutic liquid outlet 1150 can include input and output ports. The input port of the treatment solution outlet 1150 can be connected to the port of the treatment solution storage chamber 1140. The output port of the therapeutic fluid outlet 1150 can be directed outward from the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 1100 and is a one-way valve so that the therapeutic fluid can flow out of the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 1100 through the output port. Can be included.

FIG. 12 shows a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1200, including a pressure chamber, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1200 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG.

In one example, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1200 includes an annular body 1210 and an optical zone 1220. The optical zone 1220 is in the center of the annular body 1210. The annular body 1210 includes a pressure chamber 1230, a therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1240, a therapeutic fluid outlet 1270, and a delivery channel 1280.

The pressure chamber 1230 can occupy the first part of the volume within the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1200, while the therapeutic liquid storage chamber 1240 occupies the second part (but not the rest) of that volume. .. Specifically, the pressure chamber 1230 can be housed near the outer circumference of the annular body 1210 and can have an annular volume located below (or above) the therapeutic liquid storage chamber 1140.

In addition, the therapeutic solution storage chamber 1240 can store therapeutic fluid and may include port 1250. The therapeutic fluid outlet 1270 is connected to the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1240 via a delivery channel 1280. Specifically, each of the therapeutic solution outlet 1270 and the delivery channel 1280 can include an input port and an output port. The input port of therapeutic solution outlet 1270 may be connected to the output port of delivery channel 1280. The input port of delivery channel 1280 can then be connected to port 1250 of the therapeutic solution storage chamber 1240. The output port of the therapeutic fluid outlet 1270 can be directed outward from the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 1200 so that the therapeutic fluid can flow out of the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 1200 through the output port. One, some or all of the input and output ports and port 1250 may include a one-way valve. In addition, delivery channel 1280 can include a flow limiter.

The flow limiter can be a suitable metering valve / flow rate regulator / pressure regulator. In one example, one or more metering valves / flow rate regulators / pressure regulators can be combined to achieve the desired flow rate of the therapeutic solution into the eye. In one example, the flow limiter can be a high fluid resistance channel. The high fluid resistance channel can be any channel, including a channel having a high resistance and having a small opening or a channel having a solid material that increases the resistance of the flowing fluid. In another example, a flow limiter is placed within the delivery channel 1280 and dissolves over time at a target rate based on contact with the therapeutic fluid, thereby changing the opening of delivery channel 1280 over time, 1 It can include one or more soluble barriers (eg, soluble beads).

FIG. 13 shows a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1300, including a pressure chamber, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1300 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG.

In one example, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1300 includes an annular body 1310 and an optical zone 1320. The optical zone 1320 is in the center of the annular body 1310. The annular body 1310 includes a pressure chamber 1330, a therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1340, and a therapeutic fluid outlet 1350.

The pressure chamber 1330 can occupy the first part of the volume within the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1300, while the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1340 occupies the second part of the volume. In particular, the pressure chamber 1330 does not have to have an annular volume. Instead, the pressure chamber 1330 can have any shape and can be defined as a pocket or some other space within the annular body 1310. Similarly, the therapeutic solution storage chamber 1340 can have any shape and can be defined as a pocket or some other space within the annular body 1310. Typically, the pressure chamber 1330 and the therapeutic solution storage chamber 1340 have a common flexible membrane (eg, an intermediate flexible diaphragm). The volumes of the pressure chamber 1330 and the therapeutic solution storage chamber 1340 may be the same, but they do not have to be the same.

In addition, the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1340 can store the therapeutic fluid and can include a port. Therapeutic outlet 1350 can include input and output ports. The input port of the therapeutic liquid outlet 1350 can be connected to the port of the therapeutic liquid storage chamber 1340. The output port of the therapeutic fluid outlet 1350 can be directed outward from the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 1300 and is a one-way valve so that the therapeutic fluid can flow out of the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 1300 through the output port. Can be included.

FIG. 14 shows a top view of a further exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1400, including a pressure chamber, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1400 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG. Further, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1400 is similar to the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1300 of FIG. 13, except that the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1400 includes a plurality of pressure chambers and a plurality of therapeutic fluid storage chambers.

In one example, an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1400 includes an annular body 1410 and an optical zone 1420. The optical zone 1420 is in the center of the annular body 1410. The annular body 1410 includes a first pressure chamber 1430, a first therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1440, a second pressure chamber 1470, a second therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1480, a therapeutic fluid outlet 1450, and a delivery channel 1460. And include.

The first pressure chamber 1430 can occupy the first part of the volume within the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1400, while the first therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1440 occupies the second part of the volume. In particular, the first pressure chamber 1430 does not have to have an annular volume. Instead, the first pressure chamber 1430 can have any shape and can be defined as a pocket or some other space within the annular body 1410. Similarly, the first therapeutic solution storage chamber 1440 can have any shape and can be defined as a pocket or some other space within the annular body 1410. Typically, the first pressure chamber 1430 and the first therapeutic solution storage chamber 1440 have a common flexible membrane (eg, an intermediate flexible diaphragm). The volumes of the first pressure chamber 1430 and the first therapeutic solution storage chamber 1440 may be the same, but they do not have to be the same. The first therapeutic solution storage chamber 1440 can also include port 1432.

The second pressure chamber 1470 and the second therapeutic solution storage chamber 1440 have similar configurations, and for the sake of brevity, the similarities are not repeated here. In general, the volumes of the second pressure chamber 1470 and the second therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1480 may be the same as, but the same as, the volumes of the first pressure chamber 1430 and the first therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1440. No need. Further, the second treatment liquid storage chamber 1480 is the same type of therapeutic liquid as the first treatment liquid storage chamber 1440, a different type of treatment liquid from the first treatment liquid storage chamber 1440, or other liquid (for example, , A non-therapeutic liquid that can be mixed with the first therapeutic liquid; or both storage chambers can store the same or different types of liquids that result in the therapeutic liquid when mixed) can do. Similarly, the second therapeutic pressure chamber 1470 can store the same type of pressure source as the first pressure chamber 1430 (eg, chemical decomposition or phase transition based material), or the first pressure chamber. It can store different types of pressure sources than the 1430.

In addition, the therapeutic fluid outlet 1450 is coupled to each of the first therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1440 and the second therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1480 via the delivery channel 1460. In particular, the delivery channel 1460 connects port 1432 of the first treatment fluid storage chamber 1440 to the therapeutic fluid outlet 1450 (eg, port, unidirectional, as discussed above herein in connection with FIG. 12). Connect (via valves, flow limiters, etc.). Similarly, the delivery channel 1460 connects port 1472 of the second treatment fluid storage chamber 1480 to the treatment fluid outlet 1450.

The first and second pressure chambers 1430 and 1440 can be operated in parallel at the same time, thereby allowing the first treatment solution to move from the first treatment solution storage chamber and the second treatment solution to the second treatment solution. It flows simultaneously from the fluid storage chamber 1480, is mixed within the delivery channel 1460, and allows delivery as a mixture through the therapeutic fluid outlet 1450. Alternatively, the first pressure chamber 1430 and the second pressure chamber 1440 can operate at different times so that the first treatment fluid is at a different time than the flow and delivery of the second treatment fluid. Allows flow into delivery channel 1460 and delivered through therapeutic solution outlet 1450.

FIG. 15 shows a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1500, including a pressure chamber, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1500 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG. In addition, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1500 is similar to the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1400 of FIG. 14 by including multiple pressure chambers and multiple therapeutic fluid storage chambers. However, the difference from the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1400 in FIG. 14 is that multiple therapeutic delivery outlets are used for the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring. The similarity between the two rings is not repeated herein for brevity.

In one example, an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1500 includes an annular body 1510 and an optical zone 1520. The optical zone 1520 is in the center of the annular body 1510. The annular body 1510 is coupled (eg, directly connected) to a first pressure chamber 1530, a first therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1540, and a first therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1540 (eg, directly connected) to a first therapeutic fluid outlet 1550. And include. The annular body 1510 is also coupled (eg, directly connected) to a second pressure chamber 1570, a second therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1580, and a second therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1580 (eg, directly connected) to a second therapeutic fluid outlet. Including 1590.

FIG. 16 shows a top view of yet another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1600, including a pressure chamber, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1600 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG. In general, the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 1600 includes a single pressure chamber 1630 that activates multiple therapeutic fluid storage reservoirs, each of which is coupled to one of multiple therapeutic fluid outlets. ..

In one example, an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1600 includes an annular body 1610 and an optical zone 1620. The optical zone 1620 is in the center of the annular body 1610. The annular body 1610 includes a pressure chamber 1630, a first therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1642, a second therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1644, a first therapeutic fluid outlet 1652, a second therapeutic fluid outlet 1654, and a first delivery flow path 1662. And includes a second delivery channel 1664.

The pressure chamber 1630 can occupy the first part of the volume within the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1600, while the first treatment fluid storage chamber 1642 and the second therapeutic fluid storage chamber are each the second of that volume. Occupies the part and the third part. In particular, the pressure chamber 1630 does not have to have an annular volume. Alternatively, the pressure chamber 1630 can have any shape and can be defined as a pocket or some other space within the annular body 1610. Similarly, each of the first therapeutic solution storage chamber 1642 and the second therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1644 can have any shape and can be defined as a pocket or some other space within the annular body 1610. .. Typically, the pressure chamber 1630 and the first therapeutic solution storage chamber 1642 have a first common flexible membrane, such as a flexible diaphragm, in between. Similarly, the pressure chamber 1630 and the second therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1644 have a second common flexible membrane (eg, an intermediate flexible diaphragm). The volumes of the pressure chamber 1630, the first therapeutic solution storage chamber 1642, and the second therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1644 may be the same, but need not be the same. Further, the second therapeutic solution storage chamber 1644 can store the same type of therapeutic solution as the first therapeutic solution storage chamber 1642, or a different type of therapeutic solution from the first therapeutic solution storage chamber 1642. Can be stored.

Further, the first therapeutic fluid outlet 1652 is connected to the first therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1642. In particular, the first delivery channel 1662 connects the port of the first therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1642 to the first therapeutic fluid outlet 1652 (eg, as discussed above in this specification in connection with FIG. 12). , Ports, one-way valves, flow limiters, etc.). Similarly, the second delivery channel 1664 connects the port of the second treatment fluid storage chamber 1644 to the second treatment fluid outlet 1654.

By activating the pressure chamber 1630, the first therapeutic solution flows from the first therapeutic solution storage chamber 1642 and the second therapeutic solution from the second therapeutic solution storage chamber 1642 at the same time to the respective delivery channels, respectively. It is delivered through the therapeutic solution outlet of.

FIG. 17 shows a top view of a further exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1700, including a pressure chamber, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1700 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG. In addition, the Ophthalmic Liquid Delivery Ring 1700 is similar to the Ophthalmic Liquid Delivery Ring 1400 of FIG. 14 by including multiple therapeutic fluid storage chambers, a delivery channel 1760, and a therapeutic fluid outlet 1750. However, the difference from the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1400 in FIG. 14 is that a single pressure chamber 1730 is used, similar to the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1600 in FIG. The similarity between the two rings is not repeated herein for brevity.

In one example, an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1700 includes an annular body 1710 and an optical zone 1720. The optical zone 1720 is in the center of the annular body 1710. The annular body 1710 houses a pressure chamber 1730, a first therapeutic fluid storage chamber 1742, a second pressure chamber 1744, a delivery channel 1760, and a therapeutic fluid outlet 1750. This outlet 1750 is connected to each of the first therapeutic solution storage chamber 1742 and the second pressure chamber 1744 via a delivery channel 1760.

FIG. 18 shows a top view of an exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1800, including a delivery channel, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1800 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG.

In one example, an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1800 includes an annular body 1810 and an optical zone 1820. The optical zone 1820 is in the center of the annular body 1810. The annular body 1810 includes a pressure chamber 1830, a therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1840, and a therapeutic fluid outlet 1850. Therapeutic delivery channel 1840 is an example of a delivery channel defined within the annular body 1810. However, the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1840 in the example of FIG. 18 also stores the therapeutic fluid and is interconnected with the pressure chamber 1830, thereby acting like a therapeutic fluid storage chamber. In other words, the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1840 is a hybrid of the therapeutic fluid storage chamber and the delivery channel.

The pressure chamber 1830 can occupy the first part of the volume within the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1800, while the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1840 occupies the second part (but not the rest) of the volume. In addition, therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1840 can store therapeutic fluid and can include input and output ports. Therapeutic outlet 1850 can also include input and output ports. The input port of the therapeutic solution outlet 1850 may be connected to the output port of the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1840. The output port of the therapeutic liquid outlet 1850 can be directed outward from the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1800 and is unidirectional so that the therapeutic fluid can flow out of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1800 through the output port. It can include a valve.

The input port of therapeutic solution delivery channel 1840 may be connected to the pressure port of pressure chamber 1830. The movable barrier 1860 is located within the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1840. In the idle or non-operating state (eg, post-manufacturing and pre-operating), the movable barrier 1860 is located at the interconnect between the pressure port of the pressure chamber 1830 and the input port of the therapeutic solution delivery channel 1840. The first end of the movable barrier 1860 is directed to the pressure chamber 1830. The second contralateral end is directed away from the pressure chamber 1830 to the internal volume of the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1840 (or equivalently to the therapeutic fluid outlet 1850).

In general, the therapeutic solution delivery channel 1840 can have a cross section (eg, a circular cross section with a diameter in the range of 0.1 mm to 2 mm). Movable barriers 1860 have the same cross section (eg, spherical beads with the same diameter). Further, the cross section of the movable barrier 1860 may be larger than the cross section of the opening or hole of the therapeutic fluid outlet 1850 to which the therapeutic fluid is delivered. In this way, the movable barrier is not delivered through the therapeutic fluid outlet 1850 when all of the originally stored therapeutic fluid is delivered. In one example, the movable barrier 1860 can be a solid object such as glass beads, or a material such as a liquid-saturated sponge. In another example, the movable barrier 1860 can be a liquid having a high viscosity (eg, greater than a predetermined viscosity threshold) or a viscosity higher than that of the therapeutic liquid. In this example, the movable barrier 1860 can be a silicone oil. For example, the movable barrier 1860 can be an immiscible liquid such as silicone oil.

During operation, the pressure source within the pressure chamber 1830 can be actuated (eg, based on chemical decomposition or phase transition, as shown in connection with FIGS. 8 and 9). The pressure source releases pressure that exerts a force on the first end of the movable barrier 1860. When this force is greater than the reverse force exerted on the second end opposite the movable barrier 1860, the movable barrier 1860 travels through the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1840, thereby the therapeutic fluid outlet 1850. It causes a flow of therapeutic fluid towards, resulting in delivery of some of the therapeutic fluid through the therapeutic fluid outlet 1850.

Similar to the various embodiments described in connection with FIGS. 6, 8, 9 and 11-17, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1800 may include one or more flow limiters (eg, a therapeutic liquid delivery channel 1840 or It may include one or more valves (eg, one-way valves within the Therapeutic Liquid Outlet 1850) that are in or connected to the Therapeutic Liquid Outlet 1850. In addition, the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 1800 can include multiple pressure chambers, multiple therapeutic fluid delivery channels and / or multiple therapeutic fluid outlets in a one-to-one, one-to-many, or many-to-many configuration. .. When multiple therapeutic fluid delivery channels are used, each of such channels can store the same or different types of therapeutic fluid, with different therapeutic fluids simultaneously or at different times, and separately. Alternatively, it can be delivered as a mixed solution.

The therapeutic solution delivery channel 1840 can have any shape and size, depending on the target storage volume of the therapeutic solution. For example, the therapeutic solution delivery channel 1840 can have a spiral shape as shown in FIG. 18, where the cross section of the liquid delivery channel 1840 is a uniform circle with a diameter of 0.1 mm to 2 mm. Other geometries of the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1840 are possible, such as those that are circular but have a diameter that decreases in size towards the therapeutic fluid outlet 1850. Other therapeutic solution delivery channels 1840, such as meandering or straight lines, are also possible.

In one example, a flow limiter can be housed within the therapeutic solution delivery channel 1840. For example, a flow limiter is implemented as a soluble barrier that controls the release of a given volume of fluid by blocking the therapeutic fluid in the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1840. After a period of time, each barrier dissolves, allowing free flow of therapeutic fluid through the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1840 and through the therapeutic fluid outlet 1850.

FIG. 19 shows a top view of another exemplary ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1900, including a delivery channel, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1900 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG. In addition, the Ophthalmic Liquid Delivery Ring 1900 is similar to the Ophthalmic Liquid Delivery Ring 1800 of FIG. 18 by including a pressure chamber 1930, a therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1940, a therapeutic fluid outlet 1950, and a movable barrier 1960. The similarities between the two rings are not repeated here for brevity.

However, the difference from the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 1800 in FIG. 18 is that the movable barrier 1960 was not originally located at the connection between the pressure chamber 1930 and the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1940 in the idle or inactive state. Is. Instead, the original location of the movable barrier 1960 is within the therapeutic solution delivery channel 1940, a distance from the pressure source 1930. In this way, the movable barrier 1960 divides the therapeutic solution delivery channel 1940 into two parts. The second part, 1942, is connected to the therapeutic fluid outlet 1950 and houses the therapeutic fluid. The second part, 1944, is connected to the pressure chamber 1930 and contains no therapeutic solution. In other words, the pressure chamber 1930 includes a second portion 1944 of the therapeutic solution delivery channel 1940.

In one example, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 1900 includes an annular body 1910 and an optical zone 1920. The optical zone 1920 is in the center of the annular body 1910. The annular body 1910 houses a pressure chamber 1930, a therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1940, a therapeutic fluid outlet 1950, and a movable barrier 1960. The pressure chamber 1930 is connected to one end of the therapeutic solution delivery channel 1940. The therapeutic fluid outlet 1950 is connected to the other end of the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1940. The movable barrier 1960 is located within the therapeutic fluid delivery channel 1940.

In some of the above embodiments, a pressure chamber is used, whereby the pressure generated causes the therapeutic fluid flow from the therapeutic fluid storage chamber or from the therapeutic fluid delivery channel. In particular, the generated pressure activates the flexible membrane or movable barrier, which in turn causes the indentation or withdrawal of the therapeutic liquid. To direct pressure towards a flexible membrane or movable barrier to avoid balunization of either the top or bottom of the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring by the pressure chamber, treatment chamber, treatment delivery channel (if applicable) Pillars can be used to maintain the overall curvature of the top and bottom surfaces. For example, at least one pillar is attached to both sides by attaching one end to the bottom and the opposite end to the top. Pillars can be made from hard or non-expandable low elasticity materials such as glass. Multiple pillars can be used and multiple pillars can be defined as pillars between the top and bottom surfaces. Other types of pillars are also possible. For example, the walls of the therapeutic fluid storage chamber, the therapeutic fluid delivery channel (if applicable) between the top and bottom surfaces, can be made from the same material to act as pillars.

FIG. 20 shows the arrangement of an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 2000 that operates according to an external pressure source, according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 2000 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 100 of FIG. The illustrated arrangement shows a partial cross section of the Ophthalmic Liquid Delivery Ring 2000.

In general, the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 2000 can be used for pumping based on external pressure on the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 2000. External pressure can be generated by the physiological action of closing and opening the eyelid, or by pressing the outside of the eyelid with a finger. The application of external pressure increases the pressure on the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 2000. This pressure increase releases the therapeutic fluid inside the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 2000 as the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030 deforms. When external pressure is released (eg, when the eyelids are opened or the fingers are removed), the treatment fluid storage chamber 2030 returns to its normal shape, thereby delivering the therapeutic fluid to the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030. Create a vacuum to suck back. To prevent this undesired effect, a one-way check valve opens to relieve pressure in the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 2000. The one-way valve closes after the inert gas or liquid (eg, air or silicone oil) is introduced to be equal to the displaced therapeutic liquid. Such an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 2000 does not require the use of an internal pressure source or pressure chamber. This will be of particular interest in dry eye, where individuals usually blink to reduce dryness. When the gas is introduced through the port for pressure equalization, a highly viscous inert liquid, or a viscosity higher than the viscosity of the therapeutic solution, acts as a barrier between the therapeutic solution and the introduced gas. The inert liquid of the above can be added near the port. Again, pillars can be used to maintain the overall curvature of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 2000.

The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 2000 includes an annular body 2010 and an optical zone. The optical zone is in the center of the annular body 2010. The annular body 2010 can have the same or similar dimensions and geometry as the annular body 702 of FIG. 7, and the same or similar materials can be used. Such similarities are not repeated here. In addition, the annular body 2010 is coupled to a therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030 that stores the therapeutic fluid and a therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030 (eg, directly or indirectly via a delivery channel and / or flow limiter). Includes the therapeutic fluid outlet 2040, which is located on the inner circumference, outer circumference or bottom surface of the annular body. In addition, the annular body 2010 provides a one-way inlet valve 2020 that is connected to the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030 and has an outlet port directed inward to the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030 (eg, to the internal volume of this chamber 2030). include.

Further, the annular body 2010 includes a one-way outlet valve that is connected to the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030 and has an outlet port that is directed outward from the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030 toward the therapeutic fluid outlet 2040. The one-way outlet valve can be located within the therapeutic solution outlet 2040 or within the delivery channel between the therapeutic fluid outlet 2040 and the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030. For example, a one-way outlet valve is connected to the output port of the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030.

On the other hand, the one-way inlet valve 2020 is connected to the input port of the therapeutic solution storage chamber 2030. In addition, the annular body 2010 includes a replenishment chamber for storing the Inactive Gas or Inactive Liquid. In this configuration, the one-way inlet valve 2020 is located between the replenishment chamber and the treatment fluid storage chamber 2030.

In one example, the one-way inlet valve 2020 closes any opening between the replenishment chamber and the treatment fluid storage chamber 2030 in the absence of external pressure (eg, no pressure). Under pressure conditions (eg, when external pressure is applied to the annular body 2010), at least the top surface of the annular body 2010 operates (eg, flexes and this top surface contacts the eyelids). This action creates pressure on the treatment fluid storage chamber 2030 (indicated by the vertical downward arrow 2050 in Figure 20), thereby causing some of the treatment fluid 2032 to flow from the treatment fluid storage chamber 2030 towards the treatment fluid outlet 2040. leak. In parallel, the pressure change activates the one-way inlet valve 2020 to draw the replenishing material (eg, inert gas or liquid) from the replenishment chamber into the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030. Upon returning to the no-pressure (eg, pressure release) state, the one-way inlet valve 2020 is closed. The introduced replenisher material 2070 stays in the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030, thereby preventing some 2032 of the therapeutic fluid from being sucked back into the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030. In addition, if the one-way outlet valve is connected to the output port of the treatment fluid storage chamber 2030 and has a flow direction towards the therapeutic fluid outlet 2040, to avoid the portion 2032 returning into the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2030, Additional protection can be incorporated within the annular body 2010.

FIG. 21 shows a top view of an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 2100 operated according to an external pressure source according to one embodiment. The ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 2100 is an example of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 2100 of FIG.

In one example, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 2100 includes an annular body 2110 and an optical zone 2120. The optical zone 2120 is in the center of the annular body 2110. The annular body 2110 includes a replenishment chamber 2130, a therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2140, a therapeutic fluid outlet 2150, and a one-way inlet valve 2160.

The replenishment chamber 2130 can occupy part of the volume within the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring 2100, while the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2140 occupies a second or remaining part of the volume. Similar to the embodiments described in connection with FIGS. 11-13, the portion occupied by the replenishment chamber 2130 can be the same as the portion occupied by any of the pressure chambers described in these figures. The portion occupied by the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2140 can be similar to the portion occupied by any of the therapeutic fluid storage chambers shown in these figures. Replenishment material is stored in the replenishment chamber 2130. The treatment solution storage room 2140 stores the treatment solution.

The one-way inlet valve 2160 can connect the replenishment chamber 2130 to the therapeutic solution storage chamber 2140. The flow direction of the one-way inlet valve 2160 can be directed outward from the replenishment chamber 2130 to the therapeutic solution storage chamber 2140. In this way, when the one-way inlet valve 2160 is activated, some of the replenishment material can flow from the replenishment chamber 2130 into the therapeutic solution storage chamber 2140.

The therapeutic fluid outlet 2150 may be connected to the therapeutic fluid storage chamber 2140. The connection can be direct (eg, the output port of the therapeutic solution storage chamber 2140 is connected to the input port of the therapeutic fluid outlet 2150). The coupling may be alternative, indirectly through a delivery channel, flow limiter and / or one-way valve. When a one-way valve is used, it is referred to herein as a one-way outlet valve to indicate that the flow direction is outward from the treatment fluid storage chamber 2140 towards the treatment fluid outlet 2150.

Similar to the modifications of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring described in connection with FIGS. 1-19, other variants of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 2100 are possible. For example, a therapeutic fluid delivery channel can be used instead of the therapeutic fluid storage chamber. In addition, the Ophthalmic Liquid Delivery Ring 2100 includes multiple replenishment chambers, multiple therapeutic fluid storage chambers / delivery channels and / or multiple therapeutic fluid outlets in a one-to-one, one-to-many, or many-to-many configuration. be able to. When multiple therapeutic fluid storage chambers / delivery channels are used, each of such compartments / delivery channels can store the same or different types of therapeutic fluid, and different therapeutic fluids can be stored simultaneously or differently. It can be delivered in time, separately or as a mixed solution.

Other variants of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring described in connection with FIGS. 1-21 are also possible. For example, the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring contains the same components as the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring 700, except for the flexible membrane between the pressure chamber and the therapeutic fluid storage chamber. In this variant, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, a movable barrier is placed between the pressure chamber and the treatment solution storage chamber, similar to placing a movable barrier between the pressure chamber and the treatment fluid delivery channel. Can be placed. Alternatively, there is no moving barrier. Instead, when the pressure source in the pressure chamber is activated, the pressure source (eg, released gas molecules) comes into direct contact with the treatment solution contained in the treatment solution storage chamber. Similar alternatives can be used in ophthalmic fluid delivery rings, including pressure chambers and therapeutic fluid delivery channels, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19. In particular, no movable barrier is required. Instead, when the pressure source in the pressure chamber is activated, the pressure source comes into direct contact with the therapeutic fluid contained within the therapeutic fluid delivery channel. In both of these two alternative forms that do not use a movable barrier, the interface between the pressure chamber and the therapeutic fluid compartment or therapeutic fluid delivery channel (eg, the output port of the pressure chamber or the therapeutic fluid reservoir or therapeutic fluid delivery). The input port of the channel) can contain a pressure source or can contain a fragile material that can be destroyed when the pressure source is activated. Alternatively, the interface can include a one-way valve directed outward from the pressure chamber so that the released gas molecules exit the pressure chamber upon activation of the pressure source.

In one example, pressure can also be generated by heating with a laser prior to insertion to decompose the compound. Ammonium nitrite is an exemplary substance that is decomposed into _{N 2} (nitrogen) and H _{2 O (water) by heating (NH 4} NO ₃ → N ₂ O + 2H ₂ O).

In another example, electrolysis _{can cause the decomposition of water into H 2} and O ₂ gases, in which case the decomposition depends on the inductively coupled coil and the coupling capacitor powered by the primary coil. Powering should be done just before the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring is placed on the eye by being able to be powered daily or by placing the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring on the coil after removal from the casement. Can be done. The membrane containing the salt solution can be separated from the therapeutic solution.

In an additional example, the therapeutic fluid storage chamber can first be loaded with a positive hydraulic pressure flowing out of a channel controlled by a gate valve (eg, with a thermosensitive polymer). Similarly, a negative pressure is first applied to the treatment solution storage chamber so that the treatment solution can be withdrawn from another treatment solution storage chamber.

In one example, storage chambers, channels, and compartments can be filled with therapeutic fluids, other fluids and / or components by batch filling methods, eliminating the need to individually fill each ophthalmic liquid delivery ring. For example, an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring can be submerged in the desired therapeutic solution to be introduced, a vacuum can be drawn to remove gas from the channel, and then pressure can be regained (large). Below atmospheric pressure, at atmospheric pressure or above atmospheric pressure), at which point the therapeutic solution will enter the void.

In yet another example, thermal polymers can also be used to create both positive and negative pressure sources. In one description, a pair of materials with different thermal expansion properties are joined to a diaphragm covering the storage chamber. As the temperature changes, the temperature difference stress results in diaphragm deflection that leads to either volume increase (pressure decrease) or volume decrease (pressure increase), depending on the relative orientation of the membrane. This effect can be amplified by utilizing a heat responsive material that has a phase transition between the storage temperature and the eye temperature. Materials with the same principle but with different sensitivities (eg pH, light, moisture) can be used. Positive pressure can be used to push the therapeutic fluid out of the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring to open or close the valve, and negative pressure withdraws the therapeutic fluid from the storage chamber (eg, translucent the therapeutic fluid). Can be used to withdraw from an opaque reservoir on the area), open the valve, or close the valve.

In a further example, the means of generating pressure can fill the storage chamber with a hypertonic solution or hygroscopic material so that it swells from the water in the eye. This swelling can be used to displace the therapeutic fluid or to operate the valve. The zero-order velocity process can be achieved by designing the membrane of the storage chamber so that the transport of water into the storage chamber is diffusion limited, thereby achieving a constant rate of swelling. This can be converted into a constant rate of therapeutic solution delivery.

In addition, various techniques are possible to keep the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring dormant (eg, inactive) until movement (eg, placed on or about to be placed on the eye). .. Techniques for keeping the drug from dormant (keeping dormant) in the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring prior to application can be divided into techniques incorporated into the packaging and techniques incorporated into the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring. ..

In one example of the technology incorporated into the packaging, spring clips can be added to the casement, which applies pressure to the contacts on one or more channels to tighten and close them. This can be done on the therapeutic fluid outlet of the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, or to separate the pressure chamber from the therapeutic fluid using a channel, or a solid expansive gas when mixed. This can be done to separate the two reactive substances that produce the from each other (eg, to separate the peroxide from platinum).

Another example of the technology incorporated into the packaging is when using phase transition materials at pressure sources such as perfluoropentane or Freon-22 (chlorodifluoromethane), ophthalmic liquid delivery rings up to the point where the vapor pressure is less than 1 atmosphere. It may be cooled. Therefore, storage at low temperatures will prevent the phase transition pressure source from operating. For gas pressure sources, the same can be done at lower temperatures.

A further example of the technology incorporated into the packaging is treatment at room temperature utilizing a pair of temperature sensitive materials (eg, poly (N-isopropylacrylamide) or materials with different coefficients of thermal expansion (eg, in biomaterial strips). The liquid storage chamber can be sealed or gated, but opened at eye temperature.

In yet another example, the technology incorporated in the packaging is stored in a package with elevated internal pressure that matches the pressure of the source for an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring with a pressure chamber that relies on a fluid resistor to regulate the flow. can do. Similar to a soda can, opening the casement will bring atmospheric pressure to this ring and the newly formed pressure difference between the pressure source and the atmosphere will initiate the flow.

In one example of a technique incorporated into an ophthalmic fluid delivery ring, the flow of therapeutic fluid can be initiated by removing some form of stop in the ophthalmic fluid delivery ring itself. Dissolvable plugs are possible. In such cases, a laser can be used to melt nanoparticles impregnated plugs such as paraffin containing iron nanoparticles. Before placing it on the eye, the laser will selectively melt the plug by heating the nanoparticles. The thermal mass of the plug is safe for the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring to handle immediately after laser application, as the heated area becomes smaller and the entire ophthalmic liquid delivery ring is not heated (the laser only acts on the plug itself). It would be low enough to be there.

Another example of a technique incorporated into an ophthalmic fluid delivery ring is the use of a low melting point hydrogel (eg, agarose) to block the treatment outlet or flow path and allow the treatment to come into contact with the warm eye. Can be maintained in a liquid delivery ring. Alternatively, a temperature sensitive material (eg, poly (N-isopropylacrylamide)) can be placed in the flow path, thereby maintaining a swollen blockage at storage temperature, but contracting at body temperature to open the flow path and liquid. Allows the flow of. In both cases, the temperature sensitive polymer can instead be used to hold the valve in a closed position and allow the valve to open when the temperature rises.

A further example of a technique incorporated into an ophthalmic liquid delivery ring is a material that is soluble in tears, but otherwise has the property of obstructing the flow path or retaining a valve (eg, solid or gel) (eg, solid or gel). For example, salts, sugars, metals) can also be used. In some cases, if the contact between the soluble material and the therapeutic agent results in dissolution between storages, the contact surface may be coated with a thin layer of impermeable material to prevent this. When introduced into the eye, the exposed surface can dissolve, leaving a thin layer of opaque material in place. With proper selection of the mechanical properties of this thin layer, it can be designed to rupture without mechanical support of the soluble material, thereby allowing operation or opening of valves or channels. To. Degradable materials can also be utilized (instead of soluble materials), and in some cases the need for an impermeable layer of material can be eliminated. For example, a material that is susceptible to deterioration by an enzyme (eg, protease) in tears can be used because it selectively deteriorates in the eye but not in the packaging.

In the example of the technology incorporated in both the packaging and the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, it is also possible to use a magnet on the packaging, which opens the outlet when the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring is removed from the packaging. Multiple approaches are possible to implement this technique. One approach would be to have a flap seal that covers the outlet and responds magnetically. It may be a polymer in which magnetic particles or a magnetic stainless steel sheet are embedded and will be pulled down by a magnet in the packaging to close and seal the channel. It is also possible to use a small movable ball as a plug, and the action of removing the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring from the packaging allows the magnet to be moved so that it no longer seals the outlet port.

In additional examples, the pressure-producing material, pressure source, or propellant can be housed in a brittle reservoir or behind a brittle seal. By bending the ophthalmic liquid delivery ring, the seal creates cracks without creating sharp edges. This allows the substance contained to be released and act as designed (acting to push the therapeutic solution directly or to mix with another substance to create pressure). Whether it acts on or not). A crystallized parylene bag is an example of a brittle material that can be formed in a seal or reservoir but cannot tear contact lenses.

Although the best forms and / or what is considered to be other examples have been described above, various modifications can be made there and the subject matter disclosed herein is practiced in various forms and examples. It should be understood that the teachings can be applied to a number of applications described herein only in part. The following claims are intended to claim any use, modification, or modification that falls within the true scope of this teaching.

Unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, sizes, sizes, and other specifications described herein, including the claims below, are approximate and inaccurate. .. They are intended to have a reasonable range that is consistent with the functions they relate to and those customary in the art in which they relate. With respect to diameter, radius, height, volume, or irradiance, wavelength, or other industrial unit, "about" and "substantially" are the designated industrial units, as is known in the art. Includes measurements or settings within ± 1%, ± 2%, ± 5%, ± 10%, or other tolerances.

The scope of protection is limited only by the following claims. Its scope is wide enough to be consistent with the usual meaning of the language used in the claims when interpreted in the light of this specification and the subsequent filing process, and all structural and functional equivalents. Should be intended and interpreted to include. Nonetheless, none of the claims are intended to contain and interpret subject matter that does not meet the requirements of Article 101, 102 or 103 of the U.S. Patent Act. Must not be. Unintended inclusion of such subjects is abandoned here.

Except as just mentioned, any component, process, configuration, object, benefit, advantage, or equivalent, whether described or illustrated, whether or not it is stated in the claims. Should not be intended or interpreted to cause the public to specialize in.

The terms and expressions used herein are given to such terms and expressions in the respective corresponding areas of inquiry and research, unless a particular meaning is otherwise stated herein. It will be understood to have the usual meaning. Related terms such as first and second are used to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requesting or implying such actual relationship or order between such entities or actions. Can only be used for. The terms "comprises", "comprising" or any other variation thereof include a list of elements such that a process, method, article or device does not include only those elements. It is intended to include non-exclusive inclusion so that it can include other elements that are not explicitly listed or unique to a process, method, article or device. The element following "a" or "an" does not preclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article or device containing the element without further restriction.

A summary of this disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly identify the nature of the technical disclosure. The abstract is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Further, in the above detailed description, it can be seen that different configurations are grouped together in different embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the present disclosure. This disclosed method should not be construed as reflecting the intent that the claimed embodiments require more configurations than explicitly listed in each claim. Rather, as shown in the claims below, the subject matter of the invention is characterized by less than all configurations of a single disclosure embodiment. Therefore, the following claims are incorporated in the detailed description, and each claim is independent as a subject to be patented individually.

Claims (34)

A hollow optical zone is defined, and an inner circumference surrounding the hollow optical zone, an outer circumference surrounding the inner circumference, an upper surface existing between the inner circumference and the outer circumference, and an annular body defined by a bottom surface facing the upper surface. ,
The treatment solution storage chamber arranged in the annular body and
A therapeutic solution outlet that is coupled to the therapeutic solution storage chamber and is arranged in the inner circumference, the outer periphery, or the bottom surface.
A pressure chamber arranged in the annular body and
It is an eye treatment device that can be worn on the sclera of the eye.
An eye treatment device in which the shortest distance between two points existing on both sides of the inner circumference is 8 to 12 mm. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a flexible diaphragm arranged between the pressure chamber and the treatment liquid storage chamber. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the treatment liquid storage chamber contains a treatment liquid and further includes a movable barrier arranged between the pressure chamber and the treatment liquid. The therapeutic solution storage chamber contains a therapeutic solution for the eye and contains
The inner circumference is arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone.
The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the outer circumference is arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone and has a diameter of 20 to 100 mm. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the inner circumference includes one or more flaps. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the inner circumference is formed as a discontinuous circle arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone and has a diameter of 8 to 20 mm. The bottom surface is a stiction surface.
The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising a tether and a suture hole connected to the stiction surface. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the pressure chamber contains a plurality of biosafe chemical substances separated by at least one seal. The pressure chamber further comprises a pressure source composed of fragile materials.
The pressure source includes a first chemical storage chamber and a second chemical storage chamber separated from each other by the seal.
The first chemical storage chamber contains a first biologically safe chemical and contains
The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the second chemical storage chamber contains a chemical substance that is safe for the second living body. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the pressure chamber contains a biosafe phase transition material. Including multiple treatment solution storage rooms
The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of treatment liquid storage chambers is coupled to the treatment liquid outlet. It further includes multiple treatment fluid storage chambers and multiple treatment fluid outlets.
Each of the plurality of therapeutic fluid storage chambers is coupled to a separate one of the plurality of therapeutic fluid outlets.
The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1. Including multiple therapeutic fluid outlets,
The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of treatment liquid outlets is coupled to the treatment liquid storage chamber. Further including multiple pressure chambers and multiple flexible membranes,
The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of flexible membranes is arranged between the therapeutic solution storage chamber and a separate one of the plurality of pressure chambers. A plurality of therapeutic solution storage chambers, a plurality of pressure chambers, and a plurality of flexible membranes are further provided.
The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of flexible membranes is arranged between a separate one of the plurality of therapeutic solution storage chambers and a separate one of the plurality of pressure chambers. .. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a pillar having one end attached to the bottom surface and an opposite end attached to the top surface. The ophthalmic treatment apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a delivery channel having one end connected to the treatment fluid storage chamber and the opposite end connected to the treatment fluid outlet. 17. The ophthalmic treatment apparatus according to claim 17, further comprising a one-way valve disposed within the delivery channel or the therapeutic fluid outlet. 17. The ophthalmic treatment apparatus according to claim 17, further comprising a flow rate limiter disposed within the delivery channel or the therapeutic fluid outlet, or connected to the delivery channel or the therapeutic fluid outlet. A hollow optical zone is defined, and an inner circumference surrounding the hollow optical zone, an outer circumference surrounding the inner circumference, an upper surface existing between the inner circumference and the outer circumference, and an annular body defined by a bottom surface facing the upper surface. ,
The treatment solution storage chamber arranged in the annular body and
A therapeutic solution outlet that is coupled to the therapeutic solution storage chamber and is arranged in the inner circumference, the outer periphery, or the bottom surface.
A one-way inlet valve that is coupled to the treatment solution storage chamber and has an output port facing inward toward the treatment solution storage chamber.
It is an eye treatment device that can be worn on the sclera of the eye.
An eye treatment device in which the shortest distance between two points existing on both sides of the inner circumference is 8 to 12 mm. The therapeutic solution storage chamber contains a therapeutic solution for the eye and contains
The inner circumference is arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone.
The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the outer circumference is arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone and has a diameter of 20 to 100 mm. The ophthalmic treatment apparatus according to claim 20, further comprising a one-way outlet valve that is coupled to the treatment solution storage chamber and has an output port that faces outward from the treatment solution storage chamber. 22. The ophthalmic treatment apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the one-way outlet valve is arranged in the treatment liquid outlet or in a delivery channel between the treatment liquid outlet and the treatment liquid storage chamber. The eye treatment device according to claim 22, wherein the one-way outlet valve is connected to an output port of the treatment liquid storage chamber. The eye treatment device according to claim 20, wherein the one-way inlet valve is connected to an input port of the treatment liquid storage chamber. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 20, further comprising a replenishment chamber for storing a liquid or gas. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the one-way inlet valve is arranged between the replenishment chamber and the treatment liquid storage chamber. A hollow optical zone is defined, and an inner circumference surrounding the hollow optical zone, an outer circumference surrounding the inner circumference, an upper surface existing between the inner circumference and the outer circumference, and an annular body defined by a bottom surface facing the upper surface. ,
A therapeutic solution delivery channel arranged within the annular body and having a cross section,
A therapeutic fluid outlet that is coupled to the therapeutic fluid delivery channel and is located in the inner circumference, the outer circumference, or the bottom surface.
A pressure chamber located within the annular body and coupled to the therapeutic solution delivery channel,
A movable barrier that is located within the therapeutic solution delivery channel and has a cross section,
It is an eye treatment device that can be worn on the sclera of the eye.
The shortest distance between the two points on either side of the inner circumference is 8 to 12 millimeters.
An eye treatment device in which the end of the movable barrier faces the pressure chamber. The therapeutic solution delivery channel contains a therapeutic solution for the eye.
The inner circumference is arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone.
28. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 28, wherein the outer circumference is arranged around the center of the hollow optical zone and has a diameter of 20 to 100 mm. 28. The ophthalmic treatment apparatus according to claim 28, wherein one end of the therapeutic fluid delivery channel is connected to the pressure chamber and the other end of the therapeutic fluid delivery channel is connected to the therapeutic fluid outlet. The first portion of the therapeutic solution delivery channel contains the therapeutic solution for the eye.
The pressure chamber comprises a second portion of the therapeutic solution delivery channel.
28. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 28, wherein the movable barrier is arranged between the first portion and the second portion. 28. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 28, wherein the movable barrier is a solid object or a liquid having a viscosity exceeding a predetermined viscosity threshold. 28. The eye treatment apparatus according to claim 28, wherein the opposite end of the movable barrier faces the treatment liquid outlet. 28. The ophthalmic treatment apparatus according to claim 28, further comprising a flow rate limiting device arranged in the therapeutic solution delivery channel or the therapeutic solution outlet, or connected to the therapeutic solution delivery channel or the therapeutic solution outlet.

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